Troubleshooting Trailer Running and Turn Signal Lights Working Intermittently

Published 10/21/2021

Products Featured in This Question

16 Gauge Primary Wire - Black - Per Foot

(64)

$1.10

Deka Heat Shrink Butt Connector - 16-14 Gauge - Nylon Insulation - Blue - Qty 5

(1181)

$8.90

Question:

When I disconnect brown wire from trailer lights My turn signals work but not my lights and when I reconnect brown wires again my lights work but no signals . What could it be the problem…

asked by: Oscar

Expert Reply:

Whenever weird things like this happen it can usually be chalked up to a bad ground wire or loose connection somewhere. Start off by checking your main ground as well as the grounds for all of your trailer lights - be sure that they are properly secured to a clean, bare-metal surface.

For the connections you want to check the trailer connector to make sure they are all secured and none of the bare wires are touching each other (go ahead and make sure the connector itself is in good shape and isn't corroded as well). Also look for the wiring from the connector back to your lights. Check for any places where the wiring is damaged, has exposed wiring, or looks bent and replace it as necessary.

You can use 16 Gauge Wire # 16-1-1 and Heat Shrink Butt Connectors # DW05744-5 for replacement parts.

I've also attached a link about troubleshooting trailer wiring for you to check out.

expert reply by: Jon G